An overarching theme in “Ode to Dirt” is the appreciation for nature. Often overlooked, disregarded, or taken for granted, Olds explores the notion of taking dirt—a natural, necessary element of existence—for granted and how to make amends for this wrongdoing.

Written as an address, the speaker begins “Ode to Dirt” by speaking to dirt itself, stating, “I’m sorry” (Line 1). Begun as an apology, followed closely by a confession, Olds sets the poem’s scene: The speaker, aware of their wrongdoing, desires forgiveness. The theme of apology acts as a catalyst for the writing of the poem, which runs like a thread throughout, carried by other elements like regret. In Line 2, the speaker admits to having taken dirt for granted, stating, “I thought you were only the background.” Throughout the course of the poem, appreciation dawns on the speaker, until they state: “When I understood / I had never honored you as a living / equal, I was ashamed” (Lines 9-11). With shame comes the dawning of realization and enlightenment.

In her TEDx talk, Olds talks about the “in between” moments that have influenced her poetry (Olds, Sharon. “The Poetry of the In-Between.